Icicles - A Sign You May Need A New Roof

Does your home have large Icicles Hanging from the gutters? If so, you may want to consider calling us for a roof inspection. Our expert team will give you honest advice on the quickest and easiest way to repair or replace your roof. Often icicles are a sign of an Ice Dam, which is basically a build up of water on your roof that slowly drips down. This can be easily fixed at affordable rates. Or maybe your home just needs a little more insulation in the attic to prevent the snow from melting of your roof and forming icicles. Unfortunately, sometimes your roof needs to be completely torn off and replaced. 

Are Icicles Bad for My Roof?

Icicles hang off the edge of your roof, your gutters & even off the side of homes which will slowly cause damage. As the icicle grows throughout the winter season, so does the weight of this massive ice slab. This weight will slowly rip down your gutters, siding, and even shingles right off your roof. This damage will inevitably cause water leakage into your home. Over time this water leakage turns into interior damage and even mold growth.
​Icicles form on roofs for many reasons and often small icicles are unavoidable. These small icicles are nothing to worry about and simply a hazard of living in Grand Rapids Michigan.

Why Do Icicles Form on Roofs?

Icicles form for many reasons, one of the main reasons is what is known as an ice dam. An ice dam is an ice build up that forms on the edge of sloped roof tops. Typically these icicles form when the building is heated & the underlying snow slowly melts and drips off the building. As the water drips down, icicles begin to form. The water slowly freezes, little by little, as the icicle forms. Homes with poor insulation on the roof are prone to larger and more dangerous icicles. Little or no insulation means more snow will melt into water throughout the winter causing larger and larger icicles. 

Are Icicles a Sign I need a New Roof?

Like we said before, small icicles are inevitable in these harsh Michigan winters. However, if you notice large icicles building up in certain spots at your house, we recommend keeping a close eye on them. If you suspect your roof is damaged in any way, give us a call or fill out the contact form to the right. 

Icicles on Gutters

How to Prevent Icicle Build Up

Removing Icicles From Your Home